20 Chic Ways to Style a Coffee Table in Your Living Room

We know, we know, you're already styling with (and hopefully reading) coffee table books. But instead of stacking them, consider splaying them out in a neat grid and layering the rest of your pieces on top.

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Add a Mini Bar

Obviously, this only works if you're dealing with an ample-sized coffee table. But if so, why not designate a tray for a select stash of your prettiest barware and cocktail ingredients?

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Stack Boxes

How with a matching set or mix things up. Either way, boxes lend a major perk: no remote control in sight (but always within easy reach).

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Combine a Candle and Gold Urchin

It's sophisticated yet unexpected—plus, a bowl of decorative matches adds utility and an extra opportunity for more patterns.

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Double Up on Coffee Tables

With the right amount of space, two tables can be twice as nice. An eye-catching sculpture adds height and drama.

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Plant Succulents and Terrariums

An excellent option if you'd rather skip high-maintenance flowers but want some natural inspiration on the table. (Bonus: No stressing about replacing these guys.)

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Place a Rectangle Tray on a Round Table

A completely simple yet effective geometric move: this is especially ideal for minimalists who still want their coffee table styling to make an impact.

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Make Use of Personal Pieces

They're not just for your nightstand. A beloved piece of jewelry and/or memento, like these calligraphy brushes, add flair that's unique to you.

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Shine with Crystals and Glass

Crystals get an extra boost from glass accents like a bell jar cloche and magnifying glass. The effect? A down-to-earth glimmer.

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Add a Tablecloth

Who says tablecloth is out of the question? Here, it adds sumptuous texture and an additional layer of intrigue.

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Color Coordinate

A bi-level coffee table offers even more room to show off your favorite living room flourishes. Here, boxes and flowers match the room's earthy color palette, pulling the space together warmly.

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Use a Statement Art Piece

When you have a lot of space on your table, it can be tempting to overload it with items, but as this table proves, a classic stack of books and flowers is enough when you have a larger, unique piece of art to fall the space.

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Consider a Monochromatic Theme

A pop of color might be the expected choice in a room outfitted from top to bottom in black and white, but extending the monochromatic color scheme to the table gives the space a modern, clean feel.

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Let the Table Shine

When you have a coffee table that is a work of art in itself like this one, let the table do the talking. A trio of vases looks surprisingly minimal, while their shiny finish mirrors the tabletop.

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Go High and Low

The height of the candlesticks on this coffee table, juxtaposed with the low, wide stacks of books give the table dimension without looking cluttered.

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See It Through

A clear coffee table lends this room a modern feel and puts both the rug and the storage baskets beneath it on display.

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Create the Illusion of More Space

If you're adding a coffee table to a smaller space, look for one with a see-through wire or glass base. This will give the room the appearance of having more space.

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Accent with a Single Dish

If your coffee table is quite tiny, all it needs is one of your favorite artisan bowls or plates to elevate it and add interest.

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Stagger Small Round Coffee Tables

Don't stop at one (or two) coffee tables when your supply is of the quaint, round variety. Stagger three circular tables throughout your spot and choose a different accent for each—say, a book, a candle and a plant.

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Match Your Flowers to a Book

The perfect way to add cohesive to your space without getting too matchy-matchy? Set out a vase of blossoms that echoes the color of your main coffee table book.

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